John 11:16

"Thomas, called the twin, said to his fellow disciples, 'Let us also go, that we may die with him'" (John 11:16 RSV).

Comment:

I think Thomas's reference goes further back. In verse 8 the disciples are trying to dissuade Jesus from going to Judea, since there is so much energy against him that his life would clearly be in danger. Jesus' reason for going is that his friend Lazarus "has fallen asleep" (v. 11). The disciples continue to try to prevent Jesus from making this trip, arguing that if Lazarus is merely asleep, he will awaken. "Then Jesus told them plainly, 'Lazarus is dead'" (v. 13). So I think your assumption that the 'him' in verse 16 refers to Lazarus doesn't make sense, since Jesus has already corrected their false assumption. Thomas is still focused on the danger to Jesus, and the 'him' is clearly Jesus: "Let us also go (with Jesus) that we may die with him." The disciples still believe that Jesus' life will be in danger if he makes the trip—especially if he makes it alone.

Blessings!

Rev. Ed